CT-MRI LI-RADS v2017: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent liver cancer with high mortality.
• Early diagnosis of HCC is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
• The Liver Imaging-Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) standardizes liver imaging interpretation for HCC in at-risk individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a beginner-friendly guide to the LI-RADS algorithm.
• To explain the indications for using LI-RADS in liver imaging.
• To elucidate the diagnostic algorithm for HCC detection and characterization.

Main Methods:

• Pictorial review of LI-RADS application in CT and MRI.
• Explanation of major and ancillary imaging features relevant to HCC.
• Illustrative clinical examples to demonstrate the LI-RADS diagnostic pathway.

Main Results:

• The review clarifies the indications for LI-RADS implementation.
• Key imaging features for HCC diagnosis are described.
• The LI-RADS diagnostic algorithm is presented with practical examples.

Conclusions:

• Understanding LI-RADS is fundamental for accurate HCC diagnosis in clinical practice.
• This guide serves as an educational tool for healthcare professionals new to LI-RADS.
• Standardized reporting through LI-RADS enhances congruence with HCC diagnostic criteria.